How Do They Work?

X-rays are easily able to detect dense material such as a tumor, bone or metal fragment. An x-ray moves effortlessly through air and soft tissue in the body, but is stopped any time it approaches a mass.

The bigger the mass, the more rays are absorbed. Because of this, it is easy to differentiate a tumor from a bone due to the amount of x-ray absorbed.

A trained physician, known as a radiologist, will study the x-ray and inform the doctor of the results.

How To Prepare For An X-Ray

A normal x-ray (known as a fixed plate x-ray) requires no special preparation.

Although, it is smart to wear loose, comfortable clothing that you can move around in easily. (Some doctors will ask you to change into a hospital gown for the x-ray.)

Preparing Your Child For An X-Ray

For children receiving their first x-ray, it is smart to walk them through what will happen.

There are a few ways you can help your child prepare for an x-ray.

Reassure your child

One of the best things you can do to help prepare your child for his or her upcoming x-ray appointment is to let them know exactly what to expect.

Tell your child that he or she will be awake at all times during the exam.

Let your child know that x-rays aren’t painful and that he or she can return to regular activities afterward.

Do your research

There are a number of children’s books to teach your child about the x-ray experience.

Teach your child about x-rays with a life-like x-ray machine, which can be purchased at a toy store.

These machines can be fun for your child while also helping them learn the benefits of an x-ray.

Role play with stuffed animals

Most x-rays are done in one of three ways—standing up against a backboard, sitting in a chair at the end of the table and lying down on a table.

Use your child’s toys to create a pretend x-ray room and allow the stuffed animals to get “x-rays.”

Are There Side Effects From Getting An X-Ray?

Because x-rays use minor amounts of radiation in order to create the images of your body, it is essential that you tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

The radiation level is so small that it is considered to be safe for adults; however, babies should not receive an x-ray because of this exposure.

Are X-Rays Uncomfortable?

During the x-ray procedure, you will be asked to hold your body in certain positions while the images are being taken.

If you are suffering from a painful condition, like a broken bone, it is possible you could experience slight discomfort during the exam.

Because of this, your doctor may recommend you take pain medication beforehand. Some people may experience side effects when asked to ingest the contrast dye.

These side effects include:

Hives

Itching

Nausea

Lightheadedness

A metallic taste in the mouth

In very rare cases, the dye can cause anaphylactic shock, a drop in blood pressure or cardiac arrest.

What Will Happen After Getting My X-Ray?

Once your doctor has collected the x-ray images, you should be able to change back into your normal clothing. Depending on the situation, your doctor will likely encourage you to go about your routine daily activities.

If you are physically unable, he or she may recommend you rest while you away your results.

Will I Have To Wait For Results?

Typically, your results will be available the same day as the procedure.However, sometimes results can take a few days.

Once your doctor has reviewed your results, additional testing may be ordered depending on the results.

An example of additional testing includes imaging scans, blood tests and other diagnostic measures.

Does CareNow Do X-Rays?

What many people don’t know about x-rays is that they can also be done at an urgent care center, such as CareNow®. Each CareNow® urgent care facility is equipped to provide complete x-ray services to diagnose fractures.

Our clinics have been inspected and certified by the Texas Bureau of Radiation Control and are staffed by trained, qualified technicians.

Find A CareNow® Location Near You

Disclaimer: Patient’s health can vary. While this content was approved for publishing by a CareNow® board certified medical director, always consult with your personal medical professional first before deciding that any medical advice from the internet is right for you.